In a significant blow to organised wildlife smuggling networks, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully thwarted an attempt to illegally export 15 metric tonnes (MTs) of red sanders, valued at ₹6.26 crore, from Chennai. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers conducted coordinated searches across multiple locations, leading to the seizure of prohibited goods and the arrest of four individuals involved in the smuggling operation.
Red Sanders: A Protected and Prohibited Commodity
Red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus) is a rare and highly valued species listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Its export is prohibited or heavily restricted under India’s Foreign Trade Policy, owing to its ecological importance and high risk of illegal exploitation.
Despite strict regulations, red sanders continues to be targeted by organised syndicates due to its high demand in international markets.
Intelligence-Led Operation Across Chennai
Based on credible intelligence inputs, DRI officers identified that red sanders were being clandestinely stored in multiple godowns in Chennai and its outskirts, with plans to transport the contraband to Delhi under the guise of legitimate cargo before illicit export.
Accordingly, DRI conducted systematic and coordinated searches at three premises between 9 December and 11 December 2025, uncovering a large cache of illegally stored red sanders.
Seizure of Grade A Logs and Concealed Consignments
During the operation, officers recovered 169 Grade A red sanders logs, weighing 5.55 MT, from one premises. Of these, 76 logs had been carefully wrapped and concealed using white HDPE packing material, and were ready for loading onto a truck bound for Delhi. The consignment was falsely declared as ‘household articles’ to evade detection.
The offending goods, along with the cover cargo intended to facilitate illicit export, were seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.
In two additional premises, 9.55 MTs of red sanders in the form of logs, roots and furniture were recovered and seized, bringing the total seizure to 15 MTs.
Arrests and Modus Operandi Uncovered
The DRI arrested four individuals in connection with the case. These include:
-
The key operative coordinating the smuggling operation
-
Two associates involved in packing and transportation
-
A supplier-side intermediary facilitating procurement
Preliminary investigation indicates a well-organised network employing concealment techniques, false declarations and multi-city movement to bypass enforcement checks.
Ongoing Investigation
Further investigation is currently underway to identify the full extent of the smuggling network, including financiers, overseas links and previous consignments. The DRI is also examining possible violations of wildlife protection, customs and foreign trade laws.
Conclusion
The successful seizure of 15 MTs of red sanders underscores the DRI’s robust intelligence-driven enforcement capabilities and its commitment to protecting India’s natural heritage. This operation sends a strong message against organised wildlife crime and reinforces India’s resolve to curb illegal trade in protected species through strict enforcement of national and international regulations.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
